The towel-waving Mets, who haven't made the playoffs in eight years, begin the second half of the season Friday night at 45-50, seven games behind the Washington Nationals and Atlanta Braves, who are in a virtual tie atop the National League East.

Before he starts dealing, Alderson likely will decide whether the Mets have a shot during a 10-game West Coast trip that starts against the San Diego Padres. The Mets closed the first half of the season with an 8-2 homestand, sparking hope where there had been none.

Over the next couple of weeks, the Mets (like the Yankees) will find out about themselves -- and whether they will be playing relevant baseball in August and September.

“We’ll be ready, and we’re gonna make the playoffs,” Mejia said. We’re gonna be there.”